Eastertide Day 7 Saturday April 26 2025
Mark 16: 9-15 When Jesus rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had driven seven demons. 10 She went and told those who had been with him and who were mourning and weeping. 11 When they heard that Jesus was alive and that she had seen him, they did not believe it.
12 Afterward Jesus appeared in a different form to two of them while they were walking in the country. 13 These returned and reported it to the rest; but they did not believe them either.
14 Later Jesus appeared to the Eleven as they were eating; he rebuked them for their lack of faith and their stubborn refusal to believe those who had seen him after he had risen.
15 He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.
In this passage, we see the resurrected Jesus appearing first to Mary Magdalene, a woman whose life was transformed by His love and forgiveness. Despite her joy and testimony, the disciples initially refuse to believe her. Later, Jesus appears to the Eleven and rebukes them for their lack of faith and stubbornness. Yet, in His mercy, He commissions them to go into the world and proclaim the Good News to all creation.
This moment reveals both the humanity of the disciples and the boundless grace of Jesus. Even in their doubt and fear, Jesus entrusts them with the mission to continue His work. It’s a reminder that God often works through our imperfections, calling us to share His message of hope and salvation despite our shortcomings.
As we reflect on this passage, we are invited to consider our own faith. How open are we to recognizing Christ in our midst? Do we trust Him enough to share His love with others, even when we feel unworthy or unsure?
Prayer: Risen Lord, You appeared to Mary Magdalene and the disciples, bringing comfort, hope, and a mission to proclaim Your resurrection. Forgive us for the times we doubt or hesitate in our faith. Strengthen our hearts and open our eyes to see Your presence in our lives. Empower us to share Your Good News with courage and joy, trusting that Your grace works through our weaknesses. May we always walk in the light of Your resurrection, bringing Your love to all the world. Amen.
Alleluia! Christ is risen! Let us rejoice and share His peace.